Bronchiolitis Care for Infants and Young Children at Children's Physicians
At Children's Physicians, serving families in Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, and Palm City, we regularly evaluate respiratory illnesses that affect infants and young children. One of the most common lower respiratory infections in early childhood is bronchiolitis. Early recognition and appropriate management help children recover safely and prevents complications.
What Bronchiolitis Is
Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that affects the small airways, called bronchioles, in the lungs. These airways become inflamed and swollen, which restricts airflow and makes breathing more difficult. Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, causes most cases, although other viruses can also lead to bronchiolitis.
The condition most often affects infants and children under two years of age because their airways remain small and more easily obstructed. Bronchiolitis typically develops during fall and winter and spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact.
Common Symptoms in Children
Symptoms of bronchiolitis often begin with signs similar to a common cold. Children may develop a runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever. As the illness progresses, breathing symptoms become more noticeable.
Parents may observe rapid breathing, wheezing, persistent coughing, nasal flaring, or chest retractions. Infants may struggle with feeding due to breathing difficulty and appear unusually tired or irritable. In more severe cases, skin around the lips or fingertips may appear bluish, which signals reduced oxygen levels and requires immediate medical attention.
How We Diagnose Bronchiolitis
We diagnose bronchiolitis based on a child’s age, symptoms, and physical examination. We listen carefully to breathing sounds, assess oxygen levels, and evaluate hydration status. Most cases do not require extensive testing, but close monitoring remains essential to identify worsening symptoms.
Distinguishing bronchiolitis from other respiratory conditions allows us to guide families on proper care and warning signs.
Treatment and Supportive Care
Treatment for bronchiolitis focuses on supportive care. Because viruses cause the illness, antibiotics do not provide benefit. We emphasize maintaining hydration, keeping airways clear with nasal suctioning, and monitoring breathing at home.
In some cases, children may require supplemental oxygen or additional support, especially if breathing becomes labored. We guide parents on when to seek urgent care and how to manage symptoms safely during recovery. Most children improve within one to two weeks.
Schedule a Visit With Children’s Physicians
If your child shows signs of bronchiolitis or breathing difficulty, timely evaluation helps ensure safe recovery. Contact Children’s Physicians in Palm Beach Gardens, FL at 561-626-4000, in Jupiter, FL at 561-734-9000, or in Palm City, FL at 772-219-4444 to schedule an appointment. We provide attentive, experienced care focused on your child’s respiratory health.